Populus Deltoides Research Articles

A supplementary description of Typhlodromina conspicua (Garman) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) from Türkiye, with comments on its taxonomic status

ABSTRACT Typhlodromina conspicua (Garman) (Acari: Phytoseiidae) and the genus Typhlodromina are reported from Türkiye for the first time. Many morphological details, including measurements of dorsal setae, were missing in its original description. In addition, there are inconsistencies regarding the dorsal setal lengths and number of macrosetae on leg IV among the redescriptions of this species by different authors. Most importantly, we observed five setae (pd absent) on trochanter I of this species, compared to six in many groups of the subfamily Typhlodrominae, which have been mainly reported from the Palearctic region. Therefore, a supplementary description and new illustrations of this species are provided, based on female specimens collected from Populus deltoides and P. nigra (Salicaceae) trees in Samsun Province on the Black Sea coast. In addition, the important diagnostic characters of this species are reviewed to facilitate species delimitation. Based on our examinations of two of the six known species of the genus, it appears that Typhlodromina spp. could be elevated to the level of tribe or subfamily, based on their distinctive morphological characters. However, additional molecular analysis, in combination with the use of morphological characters, would help to confirm the taxonomic status of Typhlodromina.

Seed Collection in Temperate Trees-Clean, Fast, and Effective Extraction of Populus Seeds for Laboratory Use and Long-term Storage.

Seeds ensure the growth of a new generation of plants and are thus central to maintaining plant populations and ecosystem processes. Nevertheless, much remains to be learned about seed biology and responses of germinated seedlings to environmental challenges. Experiments aiming to close these knowledge gaps critically depend on the availability of healthy, viable seeds. Here, we report a protocol for the collection of seeds from plants in the genus Populus. This genus comprises trees with a wide distribution in temperate forests and with economic relevance, used as scientific models for perennial plants. As seed characteristics can vary drastically between taxonomic groups, protocols need to be tailored carefully. Our protocol takes the delicate nature of Populus seeds into account. It uses P. deltoides as an example and provides a template to optimize bulk seed extraction for other Populus species and plants with similar seed characteristics. The protocol is designed to only use items available in most labs and households and that can be sterilized easily. The unique characteristics of this protocol allow for the fast and effective extraction of high-quality seeds. Here, we report on seed collection, extraction, cleaning, storage, and viability tests. Moreover, extracted seeds are well suited for tissue culture and experiments under sterile conditions. Seed material obtained with this protocol can be used to further our understanding of tree seed biology, seedling performance under climate change, or diversity of forest genetic resources. Key features • Populus species produce seeds that are small, delicate, non-dormant, with plenty of seed hair. Collection of seed material needs to be timed properly. • Processing, seed extraction, seed cleaning, and storage using simple, sterilizable laboratory and household items only. Obtained seeds are pure, high quality, close to 100% viability. • Seeds work well in tissue culture and in experiments under sterile conditions. • Extractability, speed, and seed germination were studied and confirmed for Populus deltoides as an example. • Can also serve as template for bulk seed collection from other Populus species and plant groups that produce delicate seeds (with no or little modifications). Graphical overview.

Optical and mechanical properties of multilayered transparent wood

The versatility of utilizing transparent wood composite (TWC) as structural building component has been envisioned by producing thicker section. The challenges and limitation while preparing transparent wood using thick wood sections can be addressed by the concept of multilayered construction. TWCs were produced using 2 mm thick lignin modified wood veneer sections of three wood species viz., Populus deltoides (Poplar), Melia dubia (Melia) and Grevillea robusta (Silver oak) followed by infiltration of epoxy polymer. To increase the thickness of composite, an easy method of multilayer construction of 2 mm thick epoxy infiltrated wood samples to produce thicker TWC composite was adopted. Assembly of 2 mm thick epoxy infiltrated wood samples one above the other to produce two layer (4 mm thickness), three layer (6 mm thickness) and four layer (8 mm thickness) thicker TWC of Poplar, Melia and Silver oak wood was carried out. The optical transmittance of TWC samples was measured using UV–VIS–NIR spectrophotometer equipped with an integrating sphere. The optical transmittance of multilayered TWC was reduced on increasing number of layers. The three-point static bending test of multilayer TWC indicated an improvement in flexural strength and slight decrease in the modulus of elasticity on increasing number of layers.

Bio-Durability and Engineering Characteristics of Heat-Treated Poplar Wood

The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of brown rot fungus Coniophora puteana activity on physical and mechanical properties as well as biological resistance of heat-treated poplar wood. Two poplar wood species (Populus deltoids and Populus nigra) were heat-treated by thermo-wood (Thermo-D) method. Control and heat-treated specimens were exposed to brown rot fungus C. puteana for 16 weeks. Physical and mechanical characteristics of specimens including density, compression strength parallel to the grain and impact strength were evaluated before and after exposure to fungus. Mass loss of specimens caused by fungal activity (MLF) was also calculated. In addition, the effect of thermal modification on laccase production by C. puteana was assayed. The highest mass loss due to fungal deterioration was observed in control specimens, coinciding with the highest substrate-enzyme interactions and constant decrease in detectable laccase levels. According to the results, thermal modification can be used effectively to protect poplar wood against brown rot fungus attack.

Decay resistance and moisture absorption of transparent wood composite

ABSTRACT Transparent wood composite (TWC) is a novel wood-based polymer composite that combines high optical transmittance (more than 80%) with good mechanical and thermal properties. It offers numerous potential areas of applications, including smart windows, energy-efficient elements, display panels, light diffusers and substrates for solar cells. The sensitivity of TWC towards moisture and biological agents such as fungus becomes important for certain applications. In this study, TWCs were prepared using wood veneers of Populus deltoides (poplar) and Melia dubia (melia) through the process of lignin-modification bleaching and epoxy-resin infiltration. Water-absorption studies were carried out by immersing TWC specimens in deionized water for a duration of 400 h and by exposing specimens to different relative humidity (RH) conditions. The fungal resistance was evaluated by exposing specimens to a brown rot (Oligoporous placentus) and a white rot (Trametes hirsutu) fungus. Results indicated that TWC can absorb a maximum of 8% to 10% of water during a water immersion test for a period of 400 h. Exposing TWC specimens to different RH conditions resulted in no significant moisture adsorption. TWC was highly resistant to white rot and brown rot fungus.

The Shading Effect of Poplar (Populus Deltoides) on Wheat Crop

This study was conducted in different villages of the district Saharanpur. The poplar tree (Populus deltoides) is used as the tree component and wheat crops are used as intercrops in an agrisilvicultural system. In this study, the different effects of poplar (Populus deltoides) on wheat crops were discussed. The parameters which are recorded were grain yield and biological yield. In the district Saharanpur, there are two patterns of tree growing with crops, block plantation and boundary plantation. It was observed that the yield with block plantation is less than boundary plantation. It was also recorded that 95% of farmers are doing boundary plantation in the district Saharanpur. In shaded areas, grain and straw yields were also drastically lowered by poplar border plantations. All villages saw a significant decline in grain yield due to the shading effect of poplar trees. It is observed that in the villages of district Saharanpur most of the farmers are practicing agroforestry with poplar (Populus deltoides). There are multiple effects of shading on agricultural crops. For this study, those farmers were surveyed who are growing poplar trees with different crops. Trees and crops both were analyzed for the survey.

Analysis of Growth Trajectories and Verification of Related SNPs in Populus deltoides.

As an important timber genus with high economic and ecological values, Populus is a model for dissecting the genetic architecture of growth traits in perennial forest trees. However, the genetic mechanisms of longitudinal growth traits in poplar remain incompletely understood. In this study, we conducted longitudinal genetic analysis of height and diameter at breast height (DBH) in eleven-year poplar clones using ultra-deep sequencing datasets. We compared four S-shaped growth models, including asymptotic, Gompertz, logistic, and Richard, on eleven-year height and DBH records in terms of five metrics. We constructed the best-fitting growth model (Richard) and determined poplar ontogenetic stages by virtue of growth curve fitting and likelihood ratio testing. This study provides some scientific clues for temporal variation of longitudinal growth traits in Populus species.

Availability of Raw Material for Wood Based Cricket Bat Industry in Kashmir Valley, India

Kashmir Himalayas is known for its abundant supply of high quality wood suitable for cricket bat industry. The present study aimed to gather comprehensive data on the availability of raw material for the cricket bat industry in Anantnag and Pulwama districts of Kashmir during the specified time period (2017-2018). The main objective of this study was to evaluate the major problems faced by the industry and to assess quality parameters of cleft and the wood used for making these clefts. Shortage of quality raw material, absence of proper marketing channels and irregular electricity supply were the major factors responsible for production shortfall. The units used wood of Salix alba var. caerulea as main raw material while Populus deltoides wood was also used for low quality bats. For the study, latest available official records of Government of Jammu and Kashmir as well as questionnaire based sample survey data were used. The industry produced 15.10 crore clefts that consumed 17,28,532 ft 3 of wood. Sample survey revealed that in 2016, the selected 62 units procured 5,84,557 ft3 of wood with an average of 9,428.33 ft3 per unit.

Study of the relative natural resistance in Populus deltoides Bartr. ex Marsh clones against poplar defoliator, Clostera cupreata Butler (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae)

Study of the relative natural resistance in Populus deltoides Bartr. ex Marsh clones against poplar defoliator, Clostera cupreata Butler (Lepidoptera: Notodontidae)

Acoustic levitation of pollen and visualisation of hygroscopic behaviour

Abstract. Pollen are hygroscopic; therefore, they have the potential to act as cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) in the atmosphere. This could have uncertain implications for cloud processes and climate as well as plant biodiversity and human health. Previous studies have investigated the hygroscopic swelling of pollen, linked to CCN activity by the κ-Köhler theory, using methods that follow observed mass increase by electrodynamic balance (EDB) or vapour sorption analyser. This study uses an acoustic levitator to levitate pollen grains in the true aerosol phase and uses a macroscope to image the pollen to investigate hygroscopic behaviour when relative humidity (RH) is changed. Two pollen species were studied in this work: Lilium orientalis (oriental lily) and Populus deltoides (eastern cottonwood). Both species were successfully levitated; however, the smaller Populus deltoides showed greater instability throughout experiments. The quality of images taken by the macroscope, and thus calculations of pollen area and aspect ratio, varied significantly and were sensitive to lighting conditions as well as to levitated pollen grain movement and orientation. Experiments with surface-fixed pollen grains were also conducted. They showed evidence that pollen hygroscopic swelling could be observed by the macroscope. The produced results were comparable with previously reported mass increase values. Although less accurate than methods that measure mass changes, the acoustic levitator and macroscope set-up offer an attractive alternative by virtue of being commercial, off-the-shelf, low-cost, and versatile techniques. A key advantage of this method is that it is possible to visually observe particle shape dynamics under varying environmental conditions.

Comparative Analysis of the Wood Metabolites of Three Poplar Clones Using UPLC-Triple-TOF-MS.

Poplar, a woody tree species, is widely used for industrial production and as a protective forest belt. Different clones of poplar exhibit clear variation in terms of morphological and physiological features, however, the impact of the genetic variation on the composition and abundance of wood metabolite have not been fully determined. In this study, ultra-high pressure liquid chromatography-triple time of flight-mass spectrometer (UPLC-Triple-TOF-MS) was used to explore the metabolite changes in poplar wood from three clones, including Populus deltoides CL. '55/65', P. deltoides CL. 'Danhong', and P. nigra CL. 'N179'. A total of 699 metabolites were identified. Clustering analysis and principal component analysis display that the metabolic differences of wood have allowed distinguishing different species of poplar. Meanwhile, eight significantly different metabolites were screened between P. deltoides and P. nigra, which may be considered as valuable markers for chemotaxonomy. In addition, the highly discriminant 352 metabolites were obtained among the three clones, and those may be closely related to the distinction in unique properties (e.g., growth, rigidity and tolerance) of the poplar wood cultivars. This study provides a foundation for further studies on wood metabolomics in poplar, and offers chemotaxonomic markers that will stimulate the early screening of potentially superior trees.

Optimizacija parametara proizvodnje ugušćene lamelirane furnirske građe proizvedene upotrebom urea-formaldehidne smole

This research aims to optimize densified laminated veneer lumber production parameters of compression ratio, press temperature, press time, and adhesive spread rate to maximize their mechanical properties. In the manufacturing process of densified laminated veneer lumber, I-77/51 American poplar clone (Populus deltoides) veneers and urea formaldehyde adhesive are used. The results showed that the compression rate and press time had the most significant impact on the mechanical properties of densified laminated veneer lumber. The optimal production conditions were determined as follows: 38 % compression, press temperature of 170 °C, press time of (10±3) minutes, and spread rate of 150 g/m2. Modulus of rupture, modulus of elasticity, tensile shear strength, and tensile strength perpendicular to panels surface of densified laminated veneer lumbers produced under these conditions increased by 49 %, 8 %, 71 %, and 23 %, respectively, compared to the control group of laminated veneer lumber. So, it can be said that the production parameters of densified laminated veneer lumbers can be optimized safely and effectively using Taguchi method-based grey relational analysis.

Spatial Heterogeneity of Total and Labile Soil Organic Carbon Pools in Poplar Agroforestry Systems

Agroforestry systems are considered effective methods of carbon sequestration. In these systems, most of the carbon is stored in the soil, and the pattern of tree planting can influence the spatial distribution of organic matter input into the soil. However, limited information is available about the extent of this influence. In this study, the horizontal and vertical distributions of soil organic carbon (SOC) and labile fractions were investigated in four planting systems: a pure poplar (Populus deltoides cv. “35”) planting system, a wide-row (14 m spacing) poplar and wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) agroforestry system, a narrow-row (7 m spacing) poplar and wheat agroforestry system, and a pure wheat field. The results showed that although the poplar system had the highest vegetation biomass (147.50 t ha−1), the agroforestry systems overall had higher SOC contents than the pure poplar system and wheat fields. Especially in the wide-row agroforestry system, the SOC, readily oxidizable carbon, and dissolved organic carbon contents were, respectively, 25.3%, 42.4%, and 99.3% higher than those of the pure poplar system and 60.3%, 148.7%, and 6.3% higher than those of the wheat field in a 1 m soil profile, and it also had the highest fine root biomass. However, the microbial biomass carbon content was highest in the pure poplar system. The SOC of the three poplar planting systems was spatially heterogeneous, with the highest values occurring at 1.5 m in the narrow-row systems and within the tree rows in the wide-row system, similar to the distribution of fine root biomass. Additionally, we found that the larger the diameter at the breast height of the trees, the greater their positive effect on SOC at greater distances.

Forest plantation diversification with Leguminosae tree species: Consequences on litter decomposition and nutrient recycling

AbstractMixed tree plantations provide greater ecosystem services than monocultures. Leguminosae tree species can be appropriate complements to achieve a sustainable soil management target. A key aspect of species trait complementarity is the litter mixture effects in the litter decomposition process. We evaluated how the mixture of poplar litter (Populus deltoides Marsh.) with Leguminosae tree species modulated the litter decomposition process and C, N and P recycling, through changes driven by the Leguminosae litter chemical traits. Under field conditions, we compared poplar litter alone (monoculture) with its 50:50 mixture with Enterolobuim contortisiliquum (Vell.) Morong., or Peltophorum dubium (Spreng.). Compared to poplar litter, its mixture with E. contortisiliquum had a 25% lower C:N ratio and a similar N:P ratio, whereas mixture with P. dubium had a 9% lower C:N and a 29% lower N:P ratios. The mixture with E. contortisiliquum showed a 64% faster decomposition rate, and 55% and 203% faster C and N release rates, respectively, compared to poplar. In contrast, in the mixture with P. dubium, there was no difference in the litter, C and N decay rates with poplar litter alone. The mixture with P. dubium had a 37% lower P retention compared to poplar, whereas P was released rather than retained in the mixture with E. contortisiliquum. The mixture with E. contortisiliquum showed a net antagonistic effect in the litter decomposition rate. However, in the mixture, poplar litter decomposed 33% faster and the E. contotrtisiliquum litter decomposed 35% slower than species alone. The C:N and N:P ratios in the litter mixture were relevant traits shaping the magnitude and direction of litter decomposition and nutrient recycling processes. The incorporation of both Leguminosae to monospecific poplar plantations could contribute to counteract P limitation in this system and to improve soil fertility and functioning.

Reproductive biology of Populus deltoides Bartr.

The detailed knowledge on the reproductive biology of plants is required for their successful cultivation and conservation. The reproductive characteristics of trees are required to assess the diversity patterns and community structure of the forests. Understanding the reproductive characteristics, such as, pollination, breeding systems, phenology, and floral biology of Populus deltoides is immensely important; because it is one the most important tree species in India. The review documented the physiological basis of the reproductive characteristics of poplar tree. Literature indicated that the dioecious species shows a regular flowering patternin both the male and female trees, and they produces flower (catkin) every year. In all the species, male flower buds bursted earlier than the vegetative bud, whereas, female flower buds bursted after the emergence of leaves. Unisexual flowering occurs between February and April in both male & female, and the dispersal of seeds reported in late May or early June. Most of the pollen grains exhibited reddish colour. The fruits are capsule shaped, splits into 3or 4 parts, and release cotton like seeds, which are viable for only a short period. Poplar mostly regenerates from seed under natural conditions, but are also capable of asexual or vegetative reproduction under artificial conditions. The male and female plant produces a significant number of hybrids seeds; resulting in an excellent growth of the plants. The species displayed cross-pollination characteristics. The information documented in the current literature will be quite useful to understand the reproductive characteristics of the Populus deltoides.

The Over-Expression of Two R2R3-MYB Genes, PdMYB2R089 and PdMYB2R151, Increases the Drought-Resistant Capacity of Transgenic Arabidopsis.

The R2R3-MYB genes in plants play an essential role in the drought-responsive signaling pathway. Plenty of R2R3-MYB S21 and S22 subgroup genes in Arabidopsis have been implicated in dehydration conditions, yet few have been covered in terms of the role of the S21 and S22 subgroup genes in poplar under drought. PdMYB2R089 and PdMYB2R151 genes, respectively belonging to the S21 and S22 subgroups of NL895 (Populus deltoides × P. euramericana cv. 'Nanlin895'), were selected based on the previous expression analysis of poplar R2R3-MYB genes that are responsive to dehydration. The regulatory functions of two target genes in plant responses to drought stress were studied and speculated through the genetic transformation of Arabidopsis thaliana. PdMYB2R089 and PdMYB2R151 could promote the closure of stomata in leaves, lessen the production of malondialdehyde (MDA), enhance the activity of the peroxidase (POD) enzyme, and shorten the life cycle of transgenic plants, in part owing to their similar conserved domains. Moreover, PdMYB2R089 could strengthen root length and lateral root growth. These results suggest that PdMYB2R089 and PdMYB2R151 genes might have the potential to improve drought adaptability in plants. In addition, PdMYB2R151 could significantly improve the seed germination rate of transgenic Arabidopsis, but PdMYB2R089 could not. This finding provides a clue for the subsequent functional dissection of S21 and S22 subgroup genes in poplar that is responsive to drought.

Effects of Nitrogen Addition on the Growth and Physiology of Populus deltoides Seedlings under Cd and Mn Pollution

Both nitrogen (N) deposition and heavy metal pollution are important environmental concerns that threaten ecosystem stability and ecological safety. Limited research has been conducted on the effects of N deposition on the physiological processes and allocation patterns of heavy metals (HMs) in poplars, especially under combined pollution. In our study, we used Populus deltoides as a model to investigate the effects of two levels of N addition (LN, 6 g N·m−2·a−1; HN, 12 g N·m−2·a−1) on growth, activities of antioxidant enzymes, profiles of low-molecular-weight organic acids, as well as accumulation and allocation of HMs among different organs and root orders under single Cd (30 mg kg−1) or Mn pollution (168.6 mg kg−1), and their combination. The effects of N addition depended on the dosage effects of N and the types of HMs. The combined pollution did not have more negative effects on overall growth and oxidative damage in the root tips of P. deltoides compared to single Cd or Mn pollution. Both levels of N deposition, especially LN, promoted growth in P. deltoides to varying extents under all HM pollution conditions. However, N addition only mitigated oxidative damage to the fine roots under Cd-containing pollution, which may be attributed to higher levels of low-molecular-weight organic acids such as citric acid and malic acid. In contrast, HN decreased the levels of key organic acids, such as lactic acid and pantothenic acid, potentially exacerbating Mn toxicity under Mn pollution. Both levels of N addition decreased the total amount of Cd accumulated in P. deltoides under Cd pollution alone but increased the accumulation of Cd in combined pollution (especially under LN). However, under Mn-containing pollution, the addition of N increased the accumulation of Mn and its transfer to leaves, potentially aggravating Mn toxicity. Therefore, N deposition, especially under HN, may lead to more severe HM stress for plants in soils polluted by combined Cd and Mn.

Applicational properties of reinforced plywood with nanomaterials and kenaf fiber

Kenaf fibers were added as a reinforcement between wood veneers of poplar (Populus deltoides) bonded with urea–formaldehyde (UF) resin to improve the applicational properties of standard three-layered plywood. Additionally, the influence of two different nanomaterials (nanocellulose and nanosilica)-modified UF resins on the performance of plywood was evaluated. Then, thickness swelling (TS), water absorption (WA), shear strength, and flexural properties were examined. Results indicated that reinforced composites with kenaf fibers improved the modulus of rupture (MOR) and modulus of elasticity (MOE) in both directions. In addition, physical properties, such as TS and WA after 24 h, improved in the reinforced plywood with kenaf and use of nanosilica (KNS) as a filler. The results of the mechanical properties were better than blanks. The treated adhesive, with nanocellulose and nanosilica revealed similar mechanical behaviors. The shear strength of plywood in KNC specimens showed the best result (increased 64.6% compared to blank) and MOR for both the parallel and perpendicular directions to the grain of the surface layers for KNS (105% and 158%, respectively), and MOE for KNS (92.9% and 152%, respectively) compared to the blank.

Effect of Potassium on the Growth and Yield of Different Varieties of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) under Poplar (Populus deltoides) Based Agroforestry System

A field experiment was conducted to find out the "Effect of potassium on the growth and yield of different varieties of Mustard (Brassica juncea L.) under Poplar (Populus deltoides) based agroforestry system" at Forestry Nursery, the research farm of the College of Forestry, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, U.P., India. Experiment was laid out in randomized block design with 3 different varieties of Mustard viz. T59-Varuna, Pioneer 45s 42s, and Jugni in 3 replications and 5 levels of Potassium per variety (50% kg/ha), (75% kg/ha), (100% kg/ha), (125% kg/ha) and (150% kg/ha) as of total 15 treatments in all. The result shows that the application of increased levels of potassium fertilizers showed high growth and yield of Mustard. It was recorded from the application of potassium fertilizers in treatments applied with (MOP @ 150% kg/ha) resulted in increased pre-harvest observation viz., plant height (cm), dry weight (g/plant), crop growth rate (g/m2/day) and increased relative growth rate (g/g/day). It was also concluded from the trail that the application of fertilizers in treatment with (MOP @ 150% kg/ha) was found in increasing post-harvest observations viz., number of siliqua/plants, number of seeds/siliquas, test weight (g), seed yield (t/ha), stover yield (t/ha), harvest index (%). Also, after the economic analysis, the returns as compared to investment were found to be more profitable.

Study of Variation in Quantitative Traits of Poplar (Populus deltoides) Clones in Different Environments

Study of Variation in Quantitative Traits of Poplar (Populus deltoides) Clones in Different Environments